BRELOMATE - A distributed, multi-device platform for online information, communication and gaming services among the elderly

Abstract

While inexpensive mobile devices and services become the primary means of online communication the elderly are prevented from participating due to technical difficulties and common barriers. Among the older users communication and entertainment are considered key aspects to alleviate loneliness. Elderly people are at high risk of facing social isolation with rising age. This article proposes a distributed, multi-device platform called BRELOMATE to promote social participation and online communication. Firstly the system architecture and a prototypical gaming service with integrated video-conferencing are presented. Secondly the user centered design process and the results of a first user study are shown.